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Proposed U.S. Law Could Give Millions of Immigrants a Path to Green Cards

Updated: Sep 8, 2025

Senators gathered in the U.S. Capitol during a session, debating legislation that could grant immigrant workers and others a pathway to green cards for immigrants in the U.S


A New Chance for Millions of Immigrants in the USA


A newly introduced bill in the U.S. Senate could open the door to permanent residency for millions of undocumented immigrants who have lived in the United States for years.


The proposal, led by Senator Alex Padilla and co-sponsored by several lawmakers, aims to update the immigration “registry” provision — a rarely used section of U.S. immigration law that has not been updated in over 35 years.


If passed, the law would allow immigrants who have lived continuously in the U.S. for at least seven years and meet eligibility requirements to apply for a green card.



What Is the Registry Provision?


First created in 1929, the registry provision is a legal pathway that allows certain long-term residents to apply for lawful permanent residency through Form I-485. According to USCIS, it currently applies only to individuals who entered the U.S. before January 1, 1972 and meet specific requirements, such as continuous residence and good moral character.


Because this cut-off date has not been updated in decades, the law is now irrelevant for most people. Senator Padilla’s proposed bill would modernize it by creating a rolling seven-year eligibility period, ensuring it remains a viable option for future applicants.


A rolling seven-year period means the eligibility date would keep moving forward every year — instead of staying fixed in the past like January 1, 1972.


For example:


If the law changed in 2025, anyone who entered the U.S. before 2018 (seven years earlier) could apply under the registry.


  • In 2026, the cut-off would move to 2019


  • In 2027, it would be 2020, and so on


This way, the registry provision would always cover people who have lived in the U.S. for at least seven years, keeping it permanently relevant.



Group of diverse immigrant workers, including a farmworker, healthcare professional, construction worker, and student, representing those who could benefit from the new U.S. green card bill



Who Could Benefit?


  • Estimates suggest more than 8 million immigrants could be eligible.


  • This includes undocumented individuals, people with Temporary Protected Status (TPS), and certain visa holders who overstayed but have built long-term ties in the U.S.


All applicants would still need to pass background checks and meet admissibility standards.


Why Now?


Supporters say the current immigration system is “broken” and leaves millions in limbo.

By updating the registry, they argue, the U.S. can:


  • Reduce backlogs in immigration courts


  • Keep families together


  • Allow more people to work legally and contribute to the economy


Challenges Ahead


  • The bill faces strong opposition from lawmakers who view it as a form of amnesty.


  • Immigration reform has historically been a divisive topic, and previous efforts to expand the registry have failed.


  • Passage will likely require bipartisan support, which is uncertain in the current political climate.


Implications for Immigrants


If passed:


  • Millions could move from undocumented status to permanent residency


  • Eligible applicants could later apply for U.S. citizenship.


  • The change would offer more stability, access to benefits, and protection from deportation.


If it fails:


  • The current 1972 cut-off date will remain in place, effectively leaving the registry useless for most.


The Bottom Line


While this proposal offers hope to millions, it’s still only a bill — not yet law.

Immigrants should stay informed, avoid scams promising early applications, and consider seeking legal advice to understand if they could qualify should the bill pass.



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Disclaimer


This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Immigration laws and policies can change quickly, and individual circumstances vary. For personalized guidance, please consult an immigration attorney or visit official sources such as the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) website.



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